His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum Meets Riders Ahead of Charity Cycling Challenge for Al Jalila Foundation
The 15 riders taking part in Cycle Against Cancer are in the final phase of preparation ahead of their departure on 1 July for a 3,333-kilometre charity ride from Barcelona to Paris, in support of Al Jalila Foundation, which plays a vital role in enabling Dubai Health’s vision to advance health for humanity through the integration of Care, Learning, Discovery, and Giving.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, met the riders ahead of their departure, in recognition of the humanitarian mission behind the charity ride.
The 15-rider team is scheduled to depart on 1 July, setting out from Barcelona to begin a route covering 3,333 kilometres and more than 54,000 metres of elevation gain over 25 days before reaching Paris. Behind these numbers is a team united by lived experience and shared purpose. Cycle Against Cancer brings together cancer survivors, business leaders, and members of the UAE cycling community, many riding in memory or in honour of loved ones affected by cancer. With 13 UAE-based riders and two joining internationally, the team reflects the broad community of support behind the initiative.
Driving the expedition is its founder, Guido De Wilde, a 68-year-old who came through stage 4 colon cancer and has championed Al Jalila Foundation for more than a decade. Having already raised funds for patients in the past, he has returned to cycling to demonstrate that a diagnosis need not be the end of an active, purposeful life, and to encourage others to believe the same.
“This ride was always meant to send a signal to anyone who has been told they have cancer that there is a road ahead,” said Guido De Wilde.” To have the support of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as we prepare to set off is something the whole team feels deeply. Every one of us is carrying somebody’s story to Paris, and that recognition tells us those stories matter.”
Funds raised through the challenge will reinforce Al Jalila Foundation’s cancer care programs, advancing research and access to care for patients.
Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we are proud to support initiatives that translate awareness into tangible impact and advance health for humanity. What makes Cycle Against Cancer especially meaningful is its ability to turn community solidarity into direct support for patients, research, and access to care. We are grateful to riders, sponsors and the community for lending their support to this cause and helping bring hope to those who need it most.”
With departure drawing near, the riders carry with them not only months of preparation but the stories of those in whose memory or honour they ride, a collective commitment to completing the journey together, for those who can’t.
